Poznan Christmas Market Guide: All You Need To Know
The Poznań Christmas Market is worth a stop on your Christmas Market Itinerary through Poland. It was one of my favorite Christmas markets that I had gone to. My perspective on this is based on years of living in Poland and seeing how many of these markets have grown in popularity, with Gdansk, Wroclaw, and Krakow leading the way.
With three markets in Poznań, albeit small, this is a wonderful stop you should make. A lot of westerners seem to compare Poland, Italy other countries to that of the German and Alsatian Christmas Markets. I am here to set your expectations. Poland does it differently. Things change year to year. Christmas Markets should be enjoyed, a time to slow down and not accrue a body count of places gone to.
Poznan is festive, fun, and honestly, it’s the perfect place to slow down, enjoy the area, and not only visit the Christmas Market but take in the history.
With that said, please enjoy my Christmas Market Guide to Poznań.
This Post Pairs Well With
- What to Eat at a Polish Christmas Market: 10+ Foods and Drinks You Must Try (2025 Guide)
- Where to Stay in Krakow: The best neighborhoods with a map!
- The Best Places to Visit in Krakow
- Check out my other Poland Blog Posts here
- Where to Stay in Bydgoszcz: Best Areas & Hotels
Poznań Christmas Market 2025: Quick Guide
Dates
November 19 – December 23, 2025
(Closed December 24–25)
Hours
Most stalls operate 11:00–21:00
Please check hours on their official website here
Locations
• Stary Rynek (Old Market Square)
• Plac Wolności (Freedom Square)
Known For
• International Ice Sculpture Festival
• Renaissance architecture
• Beautiful Old Town setting
• Family-friendly layout
Must-Try Foods at the Poznan Christmas Market
Pierogi, oscypek with cranberry, grzaniec (mulled wine), shashlik, gingerbread, St. Martin’s Croissant
Good For
Solo travelers, families, couples, food lovers, photographers
Introduction to Poznan and the layout of the city center (with a Map)
Poznań is one of Poland’s oldest cities—founded in the 10th century and considered one of the birthplaces of the Polish state. Its Old Town grew around a perfectly symmetrical market square, Stary Rynek, surrounded by colorful merchant houses, arcades, and the iconic Renaissance Town Hall where mechanical goats still butt heads every day at noon. The modern city extends outward, but everything you’ll want to see as a visitor stays remarkably close together. Stary Rynek anchors the center, while Plac Wolności sits only a few minutes to the southwest. Just beyond this are the cathedral district of Ostrów Tumski, the Imperial Castle, and river islands woven between bridges and parks. This compact, historic layout is exactly why Poznań’s Christmas Market feels so immersive—everything you explore is layered in centuries of architecture, narrow walkways, and glowing December lights.
The map below shows exactly how close the main Christmas market locations are, helping you plan your visit and get oriented before you arrive.
How to Use This Map:
Click the icon in the top left corner to see all the places I’ve pinned around Bydgoszcz — from cafés and museums to scenic viewpoints. You can turn layers on or off and click any pin to learn more about each spot. Want to keep it handy for your trip? Click the star next to the map’s title to save it to your Google account. Then, open the Google Maps app, go to “Saved” → “Maps,” and you’ll see this map ready to guide you while you explore.
Where the Poznań Christmas Markets Are Located
Poznań runs its holiday festivities across three main locations, all of them walkable from the old town center and beautifully decorated.
For the sake of this blog, I only went to the two; I didn’t have time for the third at the International Fairgrounds. You’ll have to look at other blogs for that information.
1. Plac Wolności (Freedom Square)
This is the heart of the market — tall Christmas trees, warm lighting, plenty of food stalls, mulled wine bars, and a wide open layout that makes it easy to wander without bumping into anyone. Arrive here on a day they have a performance scheduled and it makes for a wonderful time.
Expect:
- Hot wine stands
- Cozy food huts
- Holiday performances
- Space to breathe and enjoy the ambiance
2. The Old Market Square (Stary Rynek)
This is the postcard part — the colorful facades, Renaissance architecture, and glowing lights all make you feel like you’re walking inside a painting, if you are paying attention and slowing down enough to realize what you might be looking at.
Expect:
- Photo spots
- Ice skating rink.
- Light displays
- Seasonal décor
- Quick snacks & sweets
Why Poznań’s Christmas Market Stands Out
Why Visit the Poznań Christmas Market? Because Poznań delivers everything travelers want in a Polish Christmas market—festive atmosphere, authentic local food, unmatched history, beautiful architecture, without the overwhelm you’d get at Gdańsk and Wrocław. I truly believe in the coming years, Polish Christmas markets will have a complete overhaul and all be like that of the ones in Germany.
It’s festive without being flashy. Cozy without feeling cramped. And warm in a way only Poland knows how to do, the Poznań Christmas Market is affordable, welcoming, and full of small seasonal details that make the experience memorable. Some say the Poznań Christmas market was repetitive; there weren’t enough offerings. I am not one to shop at every stall; they had the type of Polish food I wanted, and they had great food as well. Remember, this is my opinion, and I have a history with Poland so I was appreciative of the offerings they had. The Poznań Christmas Market has grown considerably in the last couple of years.
While my niche is solo travel, Poznań is one of the few markets where I immediately noticed how seamlessly it balances adults and kids. Rides, activities, small game booths, plenty of food stalls, and a wide open space in Plac Wolności make it incredibly family-friendly. If you’re searching for a Christmas market that blends charm, affordability, and real European holiday atmosphere, Poznań should be at the top of your list.
Keep in mind, year over yea,r they may change things and locations of rides.
How to get to Poznań: It’s Easier Than You Think
Poznań is incredibly well-connected for both domestic and international travelers.
I actually drove from Bydgoszcz with my friend Aleksandra. Which was incredibly easy to do. I had done this several times while living in Bydgoszcz.
Let’s break it down for Planes/Trains/Autos:
Poznań is extremely well connected to Berlin and Warsaw so you’ll find you can get anywhere on the A2 pretty fast as well as by train!
Protip: Download the app JakdoJade to get around Polish cities. This app saved my life in Poland so many times. The Userface is friendly, and you’ll love using it for public transportation in Poland
From Poznań–Ławica Airport
- Bus 159 to the city center
- Taxi/Bolt in ~20 minutes
Pro-Tip: Another service you can use to get from the Poznan Airport to the City center is WELCOME PICKUPS!This is one of my favorite apps when I feel like just catching a ride. Just schedule your pickup a couple of days before your flight!
Getting to Poznan By Train
Poznań Główny is easy to navigate with frequent service. Use PKP intercity to purchase any kind of rail tickets in Poland, I would love to offer you the chance to purchase through Omio, but I prefer buying train tickets directly, especially in Poland.
Travel times:
- Warsaw: ~3 hours
- Berlin: 2.5–3 hours (direct)
- Wrocław: 2 hours
By Bus
FlixBus and Ecolines connect Poznań to cities across Poland.
Getting to Poznan By Car
Poznan is right off the A2 motorway. Here are two easy parking garages:
👉 If you’re a first-timer to European train travel, check out my Solo Traveler’s Guide to Train Travel in Italy—many tips apply across the continent!
Where the Market Happens (And When)
Poznań’s Christmas Market takes over two of the city’s most iconic spaces:
- Stary Rynek (Old Market Square): The heart of the festivities, with historic buildings, a giant Christmas tree, and dozens of food and gift stalls nestled into wooden huts.
- Plac Wolności (Freedom Square): Just a short walk away, this area hosts the impressive Ferris wheel and the famous International Ice Sculpture Festival.
The market usually runs from mid-November to December 23. Always check the latest dates on the official city website or local tourism boards, as they sometimes shift slightly each year.
One of the absolute highlights? The Ice Sculpture Festival. Artists from around the world compete live, chiseling intricate frozen art before your eyes. If you’re lucky enough to be there during this event, bundle up and get there early—it gets crowded fast.
The Magic in the Details: What You’ll See and Do
We started our visit at Plac Wolności, drawn immediately to the giant Ferris wheel twinkling in the dusky sky. From the top, we had sweeping views over the rooftops, the bustling stalls below us glowing like little constellations.
From there, we wandered into Old Market Square. There’s a rhythm to Christmas markets that I love: sip, shop, snack, repeat. We browsed handmade ornaments (yes, I brought one home), watched children riding an old-fashioned carousel, and joined a crowd gathered around live music.
At every turn, the air smelled of cinnamon, grilled meats, and warm pastry dough. Every moment felt like a postcard (I might be a little optimistic, but it really felt like that when I was there!)
Must-See Attractions at the Poznan Christmas Market
- The Huge Ferris Wheel: Located at the beginning of the market near Plac Wolności, this massive Ferris wheel offers stunning panoramic views of the festive city, making it a must-visit attraction.
When you step into the market, you’ll immediately feel the festive spirit. Here are a few must-see attractions:
- The Enormous Christmas Tree: A beautifully decorated tree serves as the market’s centerpiece, perfect for photos.
- Traditional Wooden Stalls: Selling everything from handmade crafts to festive treats, don’t pass over the locally made items. Blink, and you’ll miss them.
- The Ice Skating Rink: A fun activity for visitors of all ages (if available this year).
- The Historic Merry-Go-Round: A nostalgic touch that adds to the charm of the market.
What We Ate (And What You Should Too)
Let’s talk food. Because if there’s one reason to come to a Polish Christmas market, it’s the snacks.
We kicked things off with grzaniec, Poland’s take on mulled wine. And I swear—I’ve had glühwein in Germany, Austria, and even Alsace, but this one in Poznań? Absolutely the best. It was spiced perfectly, not too sweet, and served in a tall frosted mug I immediately knew I’d be packing into my suitcase.
Next up: pierogi. These warm dumplings were filled with a savory mushroom and cabbage mix, seared lightly on the griddle, and topped with fried onions. Simple. Classic. Perfect.
We also couldn’t resist the local legend—Rogal Świętomarciński, or St. Martin’s Croissant. This rich pastry filled with white poppy seeds, nuts, and dried fruit is unique to the region, and only a few bakeries are certified to make the real deal.
But the surprise star for me? Shashlik. These grilled skewers of marinated meat smelled so good I didn’t think twice before ordering. What I should’ve done was specify the weight. Instead, I walked away with a family-sized portion. Still, no regrets. It was smoky, juicy, and seasoned perfectly.
Pro Tip: If you’re ordering meats like kielbasa or shashlik, always ask for a specific weight or portion size. Vendors often serve generously—and you’ll pay accordingly.
What to Buy: Gifts That Don’t Feel Generic
I’m always on the hunt for meaningful souvenirs, and Poznań delivered.
I picked up a hand-painted wooden ornament for my tree, but I was also tempted by:
- Embroidered wool scarves and mittens
- Ceramic pottery painted in traditional patterns, your girl loves Polish Pottery, and they had quite a few vendors selling it.
- Locally made preserves, flavored honeys, and herbal vodkas
Everything felt thoughtfully crafted—not the mass-produced stuff you sometimes find at bigger markets. And if you’re a mug collector like me, this year’s Poznań Christmas Market mug is a tall, frosted glass with green lettering. It’s one of the prettiest I’ve seen. ( I saw it on the Facebook Christmas Market Group; there are several groups like this!)
Where to Stay Near the Poznań Christmas Market (Walkable Options)
- Palazzo Rosso Old Town Trendy, modern, right in the Old Town. CHECK AVAILABILITY HERE
- Hotel NH Poznań Reliable chain with great access to both squares. CHECK AVAILABILITY HERE
- Hotel Ratuszova Charming boutique stay directly on the square. CHECK AVAILABILITY HERE
- Hotel Mercure Poznań Centrum is Good for families needing space. Malta Premium Hotel Quiet location with easy tram connections. CHECK AVAILABILITY HERE
Use the map below to search for Hotels in Poznan. If I were you, I would stay near the old tow,n but I completely understand budgets are different.
Tips for Visiting Poznań’s Christmas Market
To make the most of your visit, keep these tips in mind:
- Best Time to Visit: Weekdays and early evenings tend to be less crowded, making it easier to explore the market. But keep in mind when it’s not busy, you may not get the vibes I had.
- Payment Options: Some stalls accept cards, but having cash on hand is always a good idea.
- Dress Warmly: Poznań can be quite chilly in winter, so layer up!
- Explore Beyond the Market: Visit nearby attractions like the Imperial Castle, Cathedral Island, and the Poznań Croissant Museum for a well-rounded holiday experience.
Have you thought about taking a tour of Poznan? It’s a great way to see the city beyond the Poznan Christmas Market! I love getting oriented to new cities this way!
Final Thoughts:
Poznań took me by surprise. It felt intimate, warm, genuine, and full of life. It didn’t need spectacle to be memorable. If you’re looking for a European Christmas market that blends atmosphere, affordability, history, and the kind of holiday spirit you can actually feel, Poznań deserves a spot at the top of your list. Have questions about planning your trip—or want to share your own Christmas market stories? Leave them in the comments. I’d love to hear from you.
We just left the Poznan markets 12/9/25, technically 3 locations. Across the street from the main rail station by the International Fair and the 2 locations mentioned by the author of this article. What a bust! In the prior week+ we have visited Christmas markets in Gdansk, Bydgoszcz, Wroclaw. Opole, Torun& Dzierzoniow. All but the small town of 25,000 (Dzierzoniow) offered more. The Poznan Rynek location had less than a half dozen stands, but did have an ice rink. For such a large beautiful square, it was 75% bare, a marked contrast to all the other cities listed. Thankfully we weren’t limited in the number of towns we’re visiting over a few weeks, as we might have prioritized Poznan way way too high based on this article.
Hi Xmasmarkettraveler, thanks so much for taking the time to stop by my website, leaving this comment, and for sharing your experience. It certainly sounds like you had a very full Christmas market itinerary across Poland. In my own experience with Christmas markets in the country — after visiting many over the years — I personally found Poznań, Bydgoszcz, and Gdańsk to be three of the strongest overall. Opinions, am I right? I’m genuinely glad you were able to experience Christmas in Poland, because I truly believe these markets are in a league of their own, especially when compared to the increasingly over-touristed German markets. This particular guide was also a return home for me and is deeply personal — I would return to Poznan Christmas Market in a heartbeat.
I also want to gently clarify for readers that visiting on a Monday or Tuesday and not including Wolności Square would present a very limited snapshot of Poznań’s Christmas market atmosphere. Wolności Square is a core part of the seasonal layout and contributes significantly to the overall scale, food offerings, and vendor variety. When I visited and researched this guide, all three locations were active, although my time at the third location was very limited, due to being social with local friends in Wolności Square— which is why it’s mentioned more lightly in the article. That said, the atmosphere — especially later in the week — was noticeably fuller and more dynamic during my visits and for many other travelers as well.
It’s also important to note that Poznań operates differently from major destination markets like Gdańsk or Wrocław. Wrocław, in particular, carries a very distinct German influence in both style and layout due to its history and proximity to the border. Poznań, by contrast, is more spread out and locally oriented rather than concentrated into one spectacle-style square, which can feel especially quiet on early weekdays when many vendors operate on reduced schedules. As with many Christmas markets across Europe, timing, weather, crowd flow, and which sections are included in your visit can dramatically change the experience.
— Kimberly
These markets to us here in Poland are for social time. We are NOT Germany. Of course you loved Wrocław, they have had to adapt to attract westerners who choose to hurry hurry hurry and see all the places, collecting them like they are a prize.